Blind Love: A Single Mother's Journey Raising a Son with a Vision for Life

As told by: Kedisaletse Baseki

Close your eyes for a moment and imagine a world without sight. It's a scary thought, isn't it? For many of us, the ability to see is something we take for granted. But for others, like my son Thabo, it's a world they'll never know.

When I found out that Thabo was blind, I was filled with a range of emotions. I felt sadness, fear, and uncertainty about what the future would hold. As a parent, all you want is for your child to be healthy and happy, and the news that my son would never see was devastating.

But as I held my newborn baby in my arms, I knew that I had to be strong for him. I made a promise to myself and to Thabo that I would do everything in my power to help him live a fulfilling life, despite his blindness.

As Thabo grew older, I quickly learned that raising a blind child would come with its own set of challenges. Simple tasks like changing a diaper or feeding him would require a different approach. Going out in public could be overwhelming as I navigated unfamiliar terrain with Thabo in tow.

But despite the challenges, I was constantly amazed by Thabo's resilience and determination. He never let his blindness hold him back and he approached every day with a sense of wonder and curiosity. Seeing the world through his eyes, or rather his other senses, was truly a gift.

Of course, there were also moments of frustration and despair. Watching Thabo struggle to make sense of his surroundings or feeling helpless when he encountered obstacles was tough. But those moments were far outweighed by the moments of joy and pride as I watched him achieve milestones and reach new heights.

In the end, being Thabo's mother has been the most rewarding experience of my life. It's taught me about the power of love, the strength of the human spirit, and the importance of embracing our differences. Thabo may never see the world as we do, but he's taught me that there's so much beauty to be found in the darkness.

Have no fear, if you have given birth to a child with a disability. With proper support and training from you, your child will excel and never cease from amazing you. I am living it, you can take it from me.